Security Agents Abduct Critic of Interior Minister Tunji-Ojo in Ondo, Lawyer Demands Immediate Release

Security operatives suspected to be police officers have reportedly whisked away Prince Owolemi Emorioloye, a vocal critic of Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, from his residence in Igbokoda, Ondo State. Emorioloye, also known as Emotel, was allegedly manhandled by armed men who arrived in unmarked Hilux vans, with his whereabouts remaining unknown. His lawyers have petitioned the Inspector-General of Police, describing the arrest as unlawful and a violation of his fundamental rights. They are demanding his immediate release or arraignment in court, warning of legal action if authorities fail to comply.

#legalaction

Sowore Foundation Scatter Better Life for Kiribo: 250 Students Collect Scholarship, Artisans Chop Empowerment as #ComeToKiribo 2026 Burst Ground!

Na joy full Kiribo, Ondo State as Sowore Foundation share 250 scholarships give students for Medicine, Nursing, Law plus empower artisans and people with special needs during the 2026 #ComeToKiribo Festival. The event draw people from Nigeria, Ghana and Benin as culture, sports and education jam together.

Omoyele Sowore talk say Kiribo Road Race na the first marathon for January 1 anywhere for world, to wake community spirit, promote health and show say citizens fit succeed where government fail. In honour him late papa, the foundation drop over N20 million, support 45 artisans, reward students N1m for winners. Kiribo don turn village dreams.

Sowore Foundation Awards 250 Scholarships, Empowers 45 Artisans; Hosts 2026 #ComeToKiribo Festival in Ondo

The Sowore Foundation, founded by human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, has awarded scholarships to 250 students studying Medicine, Nursing, Law, and other disciplines, while also empowering 45 artisans and vulnerable individuals.

The interventions coincided with the 2026 edition of the annual #ComeToKiribo Festival, held on January 1, 2026, in Kiribo, Ondo State. Speaking at the event, Sowore described the Kiribo Road Race as both symbolic and historic, noting that it is the first marathon race anywhere in the world held every year on January 1.

Beyond celebration, the festival served as a platform for education, empowerment, and community development, drawing attention to grassroots support initiatives often missing from mainstream governance efforts.

Question: Should community-driven initiatives like this play a bigger role where government support falls short?

#ComeToKiribo #SoworeFoundation #OndoState #EducationAndEmpowerment

Police Arrest Three Suspected Human Traffickers in Ondo State

The Ondo State Police Command has arrested three suspected human traffickers in the state. The Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, issued a strong warning to landlords, cautioning them against allowing their properties to be used for criminal activities.

According to him, any landlord found to be negligent or complicit by renting out premises used for crimes such as human trafficking will face serious legal consequences.

Question: Should landlords be held legally responsible for crimes committed inside their houses if they “claim” ignorance?

#OndoState #HumanTrafficking #NigeriaNews #CrimeWatch

Tomato Don Carry Igbo: Ondo Prison Officers Catch Drug Smugglers for Akure Custody Centre

Serious gbege don burst for Akure prison as officers of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) foil attempt by two visitors wey try sneak illegal drugs enter the Medium Security Custodial Centre.

According to NCoS, the incident happen during routine security check for gate lodge. When officers search the visitors’ bag, dem discover about four grams of suspected Indian hemp hide inside fresh tomatoes, wrapped well for nylon. Dem believe say the drug suppose reach one inmate inside the prison.

Immediately, officers arrest the suspects in line with order from the Controller-General, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, wey insist on tight security for all custodial centres. After that, dem hand the suspects over to NDLEA for proper investigation and possible prosecution.

Ondo State Controller of Corrections, Oyewole Charles, praise the officers for their sharp eye, discipline and quick response. He talk say the Service go continue to keep the prison secure and clean, and make sure say drug business no get space for correctional centres.

NCoS also warn the public, especially visitors, say anybody wey try smuggle anything illegal go face serious law, because the safety of the prison no be something to joke with.

ADC Wahala: Ondo Chapter Descends Into Chaos As Faction Hijacks Party Structure

Ondo State ADC don enter gbege as faction led by Prof. Bode Ayorinde allegedly hijacks party structures, sidelining authentic members. Former governorship candidate Barrister Myson Nejo accused the group—mainly ex-PDP members—of trying to dominate the party instead of collaborating, sparking tension ahead of 2027 elections.

Nejo claimed Ayorinde declared himself State Coordinator, ignored the state chairman, and packed meetings with loyalists, causing confusion and resistance. He stressed that the move lacks approval from the national leadership and accused the faction of supporting individual ambitions over the party’s growth.

Nejo urged Ayorinde to formally join ADC before any stakeholder meetings, promising a roundtable discussion to restore unity and ensure a democratic, inclusive path forward.

Wahala Don Set for Ipele! Youths Accuse Monarch of Hosting Gunmen Before Police Station Was Attacked

Wahala don really set for Ipele town in Ondo State as angry youths have petitioned Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, accusing their traditional ruler, the Olupele of Ipele, Oba Samuel Oluwashola Adesanmi Daramola, of harbouring hooded gunmen who allegedly fired shots inside his palace just hours before the Ipele Police Station was attacked and burnt.

In a strongly worded petition dated January 2026 and sent to the Governor’s Office, the concerned youths said they were alarmed by what they described as the monarch’s conduct, which they believe is threatening peace and security in the community.

The youths first praised the state government for its intervention after the New Year’s Eve attack on the Ipele Police Station on December 31, 2025. But they warned that deeper issues within the town, allegedly linked to the palace, could make things worse if urgent action is not taken.

According to the petition, the Olupele has barely stayed in Ipele since he was crowned over a year ago, frequently travelling to Lagos and the United Kingdom, where he lived before becoming king. The youths said this absence has weakened traditional leadership and damaged cooperation between the community and security agencies.

They further alleged that the monarch is constantly at war with local youths and even elites in the diaspora, creating tension and slowing down the town’s socio-economic development. “Kabiyesi is not at peace with the majority of youths,” the petitioners claimed, adding that he often quarrels with people he sees as enemies.

The youths also raised allegations of financial misconduct, accusing the monarch of removing or suspending chiefs without clear reasons and being overly interested in money matters. They cited a case where a ₦1 million donation meant for electricity restoration was allegedly diverted to a project that residents cannot verify.

Market disputes were also mentioned. The petition said the Olupele was recently attacked at Joks Market after allegedly trying to take over revenue collection, a role normally handled by the local government. His agents were also accused of collecting money from tipper drivers, nearly leading to violent clashes.

More disturbing allegations followed. The youths claimed that a young woman accused the monarch of impregnating her and pressuring her to abort the pregnancy, allegedly out of fear that his wife in the UK would react violently. They insisted that “cogent evidence is available.”

But the most explosive accusation was about security. The youths alleged that the monarch parades armed men, fires gunshots inside his palace whenever he is in town, and has previously used gunmen to threaten residents. They said a matter involving these armed men is already under investigation at the office of the Assistant Inspector General of Police in Akure.

They further claimed that during a palace party on the night of December 31, 2025, hooded gunmen were allegedly firing shots “at the pleasure of the kabiyesi.” Shockingly, about two hours later, armed men reportedly stormed and set the Ipele Police Station ablaze.

To many in the town, the timing raised serious questions.

The New Year’s Eve attack, carried out by about 20 to 30 gunmen using rifles and explosives, left the police station badly damaged and threw the community into panic. Residents fled their homes, church services were disrupted, and fear spread across Ipele, although no casualties were recorded.

The youths described the monarch’s alleged actions as “unbecoming of a first-class Oba in Ondo State” and appealed to Governor Aiyedatiwa to urgently order a discreet but full-scale investigation into the matter. They also asked that the Olupele be cautioned to prevent further breakdown of law and order.

The petition was signed by Ibrahim Japheth and Olorunfunmi Oladotun on behalf of the Concerned Youths of Ipele, with copies sent to the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, the police, DSS, and other security agencies.

As Nigerians digest these shocking claims, one thing is clear:
This matter no be small one. If even half of these allegations be true, then wahala don truly set for Ipele—and Ondo State government must act fast before things spoil pass this.

Ondo State Judiciary Paralyzed: Governor Aiyedatiwa Accused of Budget Cuts, Half-Autonomy, and Welfare Neglect Amid Ongoing Court Strike

The Ondo State judiciary has come to a near-total halt as Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa faces accusations of deliberately strangling the courts through severe budget cuts, partial financial autonomy, and neglect of judicial welfare. The state’s judiciary budget was slashed from ₦17 billion in 2025 to ₦9.5 billion in 2026, nearly a 45% reduction, prompting concerns over staff salaries, court operations, and infrastructure decay.

Judicial workers allege that the governor granted only 80% autonomy limited to recurrent expenditure, leaving capital projects unfunded. Courtrooms reportedly leak during rainfall, forcing the suspension of hearings, while magistrates and officers rely on commercial motorcycles (okada) or shared rides with litigants due to lack of official vehicles.

Despite repeated appeals, ₦400 million previously approved for judicial needs remains unpaid, worsening the crisis. The situation has triggered an indefinite strike by magistrates, legal officers, and members of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), physically locking judges out of court premises in Akure.

Observers warn that the prolonged paralysis undermines judicial independence, public confidence in the justice system, and rule of law in Ondo State. Legal analysts describe the governor’s approach as a systematic humiliation and underfunding of the judiciary, drawing parallels with similar crises in other Nigerian states.

With courts shut, staff unions united, and the public left without access to justice, pressure is mounting on Governor Aiyedatiwa to restore full financial autonomy, fund infrastructure projects, and address welfare challenges to prevent further erosion of democratic governance in the state.

Did an Ondo DPO Assault a Lawyer at a Police Station? Why a Law Firm Has Petitioned the IGP and Police Service Commission Over Alleged Abuse of Power

A Lagos- and Ondo-based law firm, Tope Temokun Chambers, has petitioned the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), the Police Service Commission (PSC), and other oversight bodies over allegations of assault, intimidation, abuse of office, and obstruction of justice involving the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ore Division in Ondo State, Mr. Moses Adeduro.

According to the petitions, the incident occurred on January 8, 2026, when one of the firm’s lawyers, Adedotun Emmanuel Adegoroye, Esq., accompanied a client—Mrs. Stella Oluwasegun, Managing Director of Niret Marketing Product Company Limited—to the Ore Divisional Police Station to formally report a case of alleged stealing and criminal conversion of company goods valued at about ₦20.4 million.

The firm stated that the complaint followed the discovery that some employees of the company, allegedly acting in collaboration with a supplier’s staff and a driver, unlawfully removed and sold company goods. It added that some receivers of the allegedly stolen items had already been arrested prior to the visit.

However, the law firm alleged that upon arrival at the police station, officers attempted to coerce the complainant into an informal settlement without first taking her statement or properly documenting the complaint. When their counsel reportedly objected and insisted on due process, he was directed to see the DPO.

What happened next, according to the petition, escalated into intimidation and physical assault. The firm alleged that the DPO dismissed the presence of legal representation, reportedly stating that lawyers were not needed at the police station, and ordered that the lawyer be forcibly removed from his office. In the process, a police officer was said to have physically grabbed and ejected the lawyer.

Tope Temokun Chambers described the alleged conduct as a grave abuse of office, an unlawful assault on a legal practitioner, and a deliberate attempt to obstruct justice. The firm argued that the actions violated multiple laws, including the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the Police Act and Regulations, and the Legal Practitioners Act, all of which guarantee citizens’ right to legal representation and protect lawyers in the lawful discharge of their duties.

In its petitions, the firm demanded:

An immediate and thorough investigation into the conduct of the DPO and other officers involved, with appropriate disciplinary measures if the allegations are proven;

A formal written apology to the affected lawyer; and

That the underlying criminal complaint be taken over by higher police authorities to ensure impartial investigation and public confidence.


The firm further claimed it had been reliably informed of similar complaints of misconduct previously made against the same DPO, raising concerns about a possible pattern of abuse of authority.

Emphasising that the petitions were filed in the interest of justice and professionalism, the firm stressed that lawyers must be allowed to perform their duties without fear of harassment, violence, or intimidation, urging authorities to act decisively to uphold the rule of law and restore confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.

Is Ondo’s Governor Above the Law? Outrage as Commissioner Decorates Gov Aiyedatiwa at Public Event Despite Court Order for Her Arrest

Is the rule of law being deliberately undermined in Ondo State, and why was a commissioner facing a court-ordered arrest allowed to appear publicly with the governor?

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has come under intense public criticism after his Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs Seun Osamaye, was seen participating in an official state event and decorating him with the 2026 National Armed Forces Remembrance Emblem, despite a subsisting court order directing her arrest and remand.

The controversy stems from a ruling delivered on December 31, 2025, by a Magistrate Court in Ondo State, which ordered the arrest and imprisonment of Mrs Osamaye over allegations of assault, intimidation, and threats against a serving Chief Magistrate, Mrs Temitope Alphonso. According to court records, the commissioner was accused of verbally and physically confronting the magistrate during an official visit to the Ministry of Women Affairs following a judgment that was reportedly unfavourable to her.

Public outrage erupted after photographs of the commissioner at Wednesday’s event circulated on social media. Legal commentators noted that no court order had vacated or overturned the ruling, and that the magistrates’ indefinite strike in Ondo State made it impossible for any judicial review to have lawfully taken place. “The order remains valid and enforceable,” one observer said, describing the public appearance as “a slap on the judiciary.”

Critics questioned how a public official facing a lawful arrest order could be allowed to take part in a high-profile state function—especially one honouring the governor, who is constitutionally bound to uphold the law. “How can a governor permit an appointee who ought to be in custody to decorate him in public?” one source asked, calling the episode “a show of shame” and evidence of “disrespect and disregard for the rule of law.”

Court documents allege that Mrs Osamaye verbally abused and threatened Magistrate Alphonso, reportedly telling her to “shut up,” referring to her as “a mere magistrate,” and boasting that even the Chief Judge of Ondo State could not challenge her authority. The affidavit further claims she issued threats suggesting the magistrate could be made to “go missing,” actions described as intimidation and abuse of political influence.

Mrs Osamaye failed to appear in court on the hearing date. Her counsel submitted a medical report claiming she was receiving treatment, but the presiding magistrate, Mr Damilola Sekoni, rejected the document for lacking essential details. He subsequently ordered her arrest and remand, citing what he described as a clear disregard for the authority of the court, and adjourned the matter to January 12.

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Akure Branch, has since called on Governor Aiyedatiwa to suspend the commissioner to allow her face prosecution without interference. The NBA warned that the alleged conduct, if proven, constitutes a direct attack on judicial independence and a dangerous erosion of public confidence in the justice system.

The episode has raised urgent questions:
Did the Ondo State Government knowingly disregard a valid court order?
What message does this send about accountability and equality before the law?
And can public trust in the judiciary survive when court directives appear openly defied?

As legal bodies demand action and citizens express outrage, the controversy has become a critical test of rule of law, separation of powers, and democratic accountability in Ondo State.

Was Ondo Governor’s Security Compromised? Protocol Chiefs Accused of Swapping Convoy Drivers Without Clearance Amid Rising Safety Fears

A serious security controversy has emerged within the Ondo State Government following allegations that top protocol officials authorized a change of drivers in the governor’s convoy without security clearance, a move insiders describe as a dangerous breach of established procedure. The incident has reportedly heightened tension inside Government House and raised concerns about vulnerabilities in the governor’s protective arrangements.

According to multiple security sources, the Chief of Protocol (CoP), Mr. Olasanya Abayomi, and the Director of Protocol (DoP), Barr. Asonja George, allegedly ordered the replacement of convoy drivers without informing the Chief Security Officer (CSO) or the Aide-de-Camp (ADC)—the two officers legally responsible for coordinating the governor’s personal security.

Security experts within the government described the action as a “grave breach of protocol,” stressing that no driver attached to the governor’s convoy should be changed without clearance from the CSO and ADC. One senior official told SaharaReporters that bypassing this chain of command constitutes a serious security violation, especially at a time of heightened national security concerns.

The development is said to have unsettled junior officers and deepened mistrust among senior officials, with insiders warning that internal lapses of this nature could weaken confidence in the state’s security architecture. Some officials expressed fears that overlapping authority between protocol and security units could create confusion and expose the governor to potential risks.

More troubling are allegations that the Chief of Protocol may be acting in concert with unnamed individuals to politically undermine the governor’s security structure. Although no concrete evidence has been made public, the claims have intensified calls for an independent investigation, with sources insisting that the governor’s safety must not be subjected to internal power struggles or administrative shortcuts.

Stakeholders are now urging the Ondo State Commissioner of Police and the Department of State Services (DSS) to urgently probe the incident, determine accountability, and restore confidence in the state’s protective operations. Civil society actors have also called for the two officials involved to step aside pending investigations, arguing that doing so would reassure the public and demonstrate institutional accountability.

However, the state government has pushed back against claims of a security breach. The governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Ebenezer Adeniyan, denied that the governor’s safety was compromised, confirming instead that the driver changes were part of a routine annual reshuffle. He explained that all drivers fall under the supervision of the Chief of Protocol and that similar reassignments also affected other units, including the media and ambulance services.

Despite this official explanation, security analysts argue that the episode highlights a deeper structural issue: the need for clear coordination between protocol and security departments. Experts warn that when protocol functions override established security procedures, it can create vulnerabilities that may be exploited.

As the controversy continues, one key question remains: Was the governor’s security genuinely compromised, or was this merely an administrative routine that was misinterpreted? The answer may depend on the outcome of any investigation and whether the state government moves to review and strengthen its internal security and protocol processes.

Ondo Lawmakers to Spend ₦80 Million on Telephone Calls in 2026 Amid Criticism Over Luxuries
January 7, 2026 – Ondo State, Nigeria

A review of the 2026 Ondo State budget shows that the House of Assembly plans to spend ₦80 million on telephone calls, averaging about ₦219,178 daily on airtime for lawmakers.

This expenditure is part of a broader luxurious budget allocation for legislators, including:

₦2.16 billion for 27 Fortuner Jeeps for lawmakers and the Assembly Clerk.

₦245 million for SUVs for the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, and Majority Leader.

₦85 million for vehicles for the Deputy Speaker.

₦765 million for renovation of the Assembly Complex and official lodges.


Context of Criticism:

Judiciary workers have struck over welfare concerns and lack of financial autonomy, shutting down court operations in Akure.

Reports show the state has spent heavily on vehicles and luxuries while underspending on essential services:

₦2.3 billion allocated for local security (Amotekun) with zero spent.

Only ₦309 million spent on rural water and sanitation projects.



The lavish spending on lawmakers’ perks contrasts sharply with the ongoing disputes and welfare neglect in the judiciary, fueling public criticism of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration.

“Ondo Government Plans N2.4 Billion Luxury Cars for Lawmakers Amid Judiciary Strike Crisis”

The Ondo State government, led by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has proposed a N2.4 billion budget allocation for the purchase of luxury vehicles for lawmakers, raising public concerns amid an ongoing judiciary strike over poor welfare and financial autonomy.
According to the 2026 budget documents:
N2.16 billion is earmarked for 27 Fortuner Jeeps for members of the House of Assembly and the Clerk of the House.
An additional N245 million is designated for vehicles for the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, and Majority Leader, while N85 million is allocated for the Deputy Speaker alone.
The total proposed expenditure on lawmakers’ vehicles amounts to N2.4 billion.
Further, N765 million is set aside for renovations of the Assembly Complex and official lodges, including N485 million for the Assembly Complex and N280 million for residential quarters.
These lavish spending plans have drawn criticism as court activities remain paralyzed across Ondo State. The situation escalated when magistrates and Grade ‘A’ customary court presidents began an indefinite strike, later joined by the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), citing unfulfilled welfare promises and continued undermining of judicial financial autonomy.
SaharaReporters’ review of the 2025 budget reveals a similar trend, with N2 billion previously allocated for luxury vehicles, including armoured cars for the governor and Toyota Prados for top officials, while critical sectors like rural water, sanitation, and local security outfits saw minimal to zero expenditure. For instance:
N2.3 billion was budgeted for Amotekun, the state’s local security outfit, but zero was spent.
Only N309 million was spent on the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency.
Additionally, the House of Assembly planned N200 million for telephone charges, averaging N16 million per month or N533,333 per day, highlighting a pattern of prioritizing lawmakers’ perks over public welfare.
This budgetary allocation comes as the Ondo judiciary demands urgent intervention from the government to restore financial autonomy, improve welfare conditions, and resume court activities, stressing that the ongoing strike has left justice inaccessible to the citizens.

Ondo Nursing Mother and Infant Abducted: Police Launch Manhunt for Suspected Kidnappers”

A nursing mother and her infant were abducted by suspected kidnappers in Ondo State, prompting a full-scale manhunt by police authorities. The incident occurred on Saturday night along the Supare/Ajegunle route in Akoko South West Local Government Area, according to the Ondo State Police Command.
SaharaReporters gathered that the woman, who is married to a well-known local furniture maker, was taken from her residence alongside her young child under circumstances that have left the community shocked and fearful.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the abduction and stated that intensive operations are underway to locate and safely rescue the victims. Security operatives have been strategically deployed throughout the area, ensuring continuous monitoring and rapid response to any leads.
As of now, no ransom demands have been officially confirmed. Investigations are ongoing, with authorities promising to keep the public informed and urging residents to report any suspicious activity. The police emphasized their commitment to protecting lives and property across Ondo State.
This case underscores the persistent threat of kidnappings in parts of Nigeria and highlights the proactive measures by law enforcement to respond swiftly to abduction incidents.

Ondo State Judiciary Paralyzed as Governor Aiyedatiwa Faces Criticism Over Poor Welfare, Financial Autonomy Issues; JUSUN Joins Strike Shutting Courts in Akure

The Ondo State judiciary has been brought to a standstill following a strike by magistrates, presidents of Grade ‘A’ customary courts, and legal research officers, citing poor welfare conditions, unfulfilled promises, and the refusal of financial autonomy under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
The strike escalated when judiciary workers locked judges out of court facilities in Akure, shutting down the Ondo State Judiciary Headquarters. The Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) subsequently joined the industrial action, further crippling court operations across the state.
Sources revealed that many magistrates face severe hardships, including inadequate clothing, lack of official vehicles, and difficulty meeting basic daily needs. The strike highlights the pressing demand for improved welfare, autonomy, and government accountability to uphold the independence and dignity of Ondo State’s judiciary.

Ondo Government Under Fire as Judiciary Workers Lock Out Judges, Shut Courts in Statewide Strike Over Judicial Autonomy and Welfare

The Ondo State government is facing growing criticism after judiciary workers shut down court operations across the state, locking judges out of their offices and bringing judicial activities to a standstill in Akure and other locations. At the judiciary headquarters, court gates were padlocked, with judges’ official vehicles seen parked outside as proceedings were completely halted.

The disruption follows an indefinite strike declared by the Coalition of Magistrates, Presidents of Grade ‘A’ Customary Courts, and Legal Research Officers over unresolved issues of judicial autonomy, poor welfare, and working conditions under the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. In a notice dated January 2, 2026, the coalition directed all members to withdraw their services from January 5, warning them not to report to offices, sit in court, or issue or authorize any official documents for the duration of the strike.

The coalition stated that the action would continue until its “core demands for judicial autonomy and improved welfare are fully achieved,” emphasizing unity and discipline among members. Videos and photographs obtained from court premises across the state showed locked gates and a total shutdown of judicial activities.

The strike comes amid longstanding complaints by judiciary workers about dilapidated court infrastructure and poor working conditions, with reports that rainfall often forces the suspension of court sessions. As the impasse continues, legal processes in Ondo State remain paralysed, intensifying pressure on the state government to address the demands of judicial workers and restore access to justice.

BREAKING: Judicial Activities Shut Down Across Ondo State As Magistrates, Customary Court Presidents, Legal Officers Begin Indefinite Strike Over Autonomy, Welfare

Judicial activities across Ondo State have been completely paralysed following the commencement of an indefinite strike by magistrates, presidents of Grade ‘A’ customary courts, and legal research officers. The strike, which took effect on Monday, January 5, 2026, was declared by the Coalition of Magistrates, Presidents of Grade ‘A’ Customary Courts and Legal Research Officers in protest against unresolved issues bordering on judicial autonomy and poor welfare conditions.

In a notice dated January 2, 2026, the coalition directed all its members to withdraw from official duties indefinitely, warning them against reporting to offices, sitting in court, or issuing, signing, or authorising any judicial orders or documents throughout the duration of the strike. The group insisted that the industrial action would not be suspended until its core demands are fully met, stressing that judicial independence and improved welfare are non-negotiable.

Videos and photographs obtained on Monday showed court premises across the state locked and deserted, confirming a total shutdown of judicial operations. The strike follows long-standing complaints by judiciary workers over deteriorating court infrastructure, poor working conditions, and inadequate welfare, issues they say have worsened under the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. The action is jointly backed by key judicial associations in the state, signalling a united front that could further deepen the justice sector crisis if the dispute remains unresolved.

Ondo State Police Arrest 53-Year-Old Woman and Her Son for Alleged Plot to Use 10-Year-Old Boy for Money Ritual in Ile-Oluji

The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a 53-year-old woman, identified as Maria, and her 28-year-old son, Adewale, over an alleged attempt to use a 10-year-old boy for money ritual activities in Ile-Oluji, Ondo State. The suspects were apprehended on December 27 by operatives of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit following a tip-off from a vigilant resident who reported suspicious ritual-related movements.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the swift intervention of the police foiled the alleged ritual plan and led to the successful rescue of the child, who has since been taken to a hospital for medical examination and treatment. Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly conspired to engage a herbalist to carry out money ritual practices using the boy.

The suspects are currently in police custody and reportedly confessed to the crime, while investigations are ongoing ahead of their arraignment in court. The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, Adebowale Lawal, commended the SWAT operatives for their professionalism and emphasized the importance of intelligence-led policing. He also warned parents, especially mothers, against involvement in criminal acts and urged them to instill values of hard work and integrity in their children, while calling on the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities promptly.

Jihadist Fulani Bandits Responsible for Over 70% of Violent Attacks on Nigerian Communities and Churches in 2025 – InterSociety Report Warns of Grave Threat to National Unity

A new report by the International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (InterSociety) has revealed that jihadist Fulani bandits and herdsmen were responsible for more than 70 per cent of violent attacks on Christian communities and places of worship across Nigeria in 2025. The civil rights group warned that the scale, coordination, and persistence of the violence pose a serious threat to Nigeria’s national unity, sovereignty, and constitutional secularism.

According to the report, mass killings and church destructions have been systematic and well-coordinated since June 2015, with Christian communities in the Middle Belt, North-East, Southern Kaduna, parts of Kebbi, Katsina, Ondo State, and Eha-Amufu in Enugu State bearing the brunt of the attacks. InterSociety accused successive Nigerian governments of presiding over what it described as an “ethno-religiously polarised state,” alleging that violence against Christians has intensified under official watch.

The organisation claimed that jihadist Fulani bandits and herdsmen have emerged as the most widespread and deadly terror groups in Nigeria, allegedly carrying out attacks framed around “convert to Islam or die” campaigns. It further alleged that controversial government policies such as RUGA settlements, grazing reserves, and ranching initiatives indirectly enabled armed herders to settle among indigenous Christian populations.

InterSociety also raised concerns over forest security, questioning how armed groups gained access to detailed forest location data after a reported 2015 forest-mapping exercise by the Nigerian Army. Despite the grim findings, the group said international pressure helped save at least 600 Christian lives and dozens of churches in 2025, crediting advocacy on religious freedom and diplomatic interventions.

The report singled out U.S. President Donald Trump for what it described as interventions that helped avert further attacks during the Christmas and New Year period, while also praising the United States and Canada for their roles in defending religious freedom in Nigeria. At the same time, InterSociety criticised the silence of some Nigerian Christian political leaders and called for urgent domestic and international action to prevent further destabilisation of Africa’s most populous nation.

Ondo Police Condemn Attack on Ipele Divisional Headquarters, Clarify No Church Was Targeted

The Ondo State Police Command has condemned the December 31, 2025, attack on the Ipele Divisional Police Headquarters in Ose Local Government Area, denying social media claims that a church was targeted. Between 20 and 30 armed men reportedly stormed the facility around 9:41 p.m., firing rifles and detonating explosives, setting parts of the building on fire. No casualties were reported, and a joint security patrol of police, military, and civil defense arrived after the attackers had fled. The Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, described the incident as a serious threat to public security but assured residents that the situation was under control. This follows a separate terrorist attack in Ondo State on January 1, 2026, where a police station was set ablaze.